Arsenal’s recent vein of form in the Premier League and Champions League has perhaps overshadowed their need to strengthen options in attack over the coming months – if they are to sustain a challenge for any of the major titles this season.

Arsene Wenger did manage to recruit Lucas Peréz from La Liga’s Deportivo La Coruña in the final days of the summer transfer window; however, the Gunners are said to be actively scouting at least two named strikers with a view to making an approach during the January transfer window.

The 20-year-old’s goals have transformed Celtic’s season from a potentially very difficult term for Brendan Rodgers to one possibly packed with potential following a Scottish Premier League win over neighbours Rangers and a 3-3 draw in the Champions League with Manchester City earlier this week.

However, Dembele opted against joining up with Wenger previously and the Bhoys, needless to say, are now very anxious to retain their striker’s services.

“He has a belief. He said he wanted to be the world’s best player when he came here and we shall see, but he is making nice strides, isn’t he? He is a boy who can get to the top but there are some things to work upon yet.”

There had been significant speculation in the summer that Real activated the striker’s buy back clause (£23 million) to be in a position to sell him on for a much bigger fee to one of a number of interested Premier League clubs, and the Gunners will have to battle with Chelsea among others if they are still interested in getting the 23-year-old on board.

One thing is for certain, however, the Gooners are getting ready for January early this year. Arsenal supporters can only hope they get a delayed Christmas present of another striker at the Emirates.